Only a small contingent of House Democrats is expected to support the DHS funding bill this week, following a wave of opposition from party leaders during a private caucus meeting on Wednesday. According to sources who wished to remain anonymous, Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and other top Democrats vehemently criticized the bill. They argued that it fails to sufficiently address recent issues with ICE, particularly after confrontations in Minnesota.

California Representative Pete Aguilar, the third-ranking Democrat, articulated the caucus's stance to the press, stating, "We'll be voting no unless there are any substantive changes or amendments." This sentiment reflects a broad dissatisfaction within the party concerning the bill's current provisions on immigration enforcement.

In contrast, Texas Representative Henry Cuellar, a key Democratic negotiator on the Homeland Security Appropriations subcommittee, defended the bill. Cuellar highlighted the inclusion of $20 million for body cameras and restrictions to prevent fund transfers between agencies as significant improvements. Despite acknowledging the concerns over ICE's conduct, he argued that the bill, although not perfect, provides more oversight than a continuing resolution would. "The alternative would be a blank check, and I don't want to give them a blank check," Cuellar explained.

However, his views are not widely shared among his Democratic colleagues on the appropriations committee. Illinois Representative Lauren Underwood and Maryland Representative Glenn Ivey have both declared their intent to oppose the bill, with Ivey predicting that the majority of Democratic appropriators will follow suit. South Carolina Representative Jim Clyburn and Indiana Representative Frank Mrvan have also expressed reservations, with Clyburn leaning towards a 'no' vote and Mrvan still undecided.

On the Republican side, leaders are confident they have enough votes to pass the measure without needing Democratic support. However, recent attendance issues have raised concerns about achieving a successful vote. GOP leaders emphasized the importance of full participation in an internal meeting, warning that the vote count could be tighter than anticipated.

As the vote approaches, the debate underscores deep divisions not only between the two major parties but also within the Democratic Party itself, regarding the best approach to homeland security funding and oversight of enforcement agencies like ICE.